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ABDUCTEl). 



A Drama in Five Acts, 



[All R[ohts Reserved.] 




BY JONES KELLY. 






1 X 4 «► X ♦ ♦► 4 

\ V >-♦.♦■ X -♦♦♦ X ■♦•♦ ♦ — ^m 



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\ 



ABDUCTED. 



A Drama in Five Acts, 



[All Rcghts Reskrvkd.] 



BY JONES KELLY. 






ALLK(iHENY: /,> 

Printei> v.y Thos. Corde & Co., 120 Pennsylvania Avenue. 

1880. 



'T- 



CHARACTEf|S IN THE DljAMyl, 

Arthur Arlington. 

Mr. Walters 

Nettie Walters.. „ 

Plato ^'^ Daughter. 

T , An African. 

•JUNA LiEMONT 

r,^ „ "^ Quadroon. 

Cteorge Sterling 

T -D A Villain. 

Joe Kobinson \ 

Mark Star - „. 

Bob Manks \ His Confederates. 

Mr. Villers . ^^ x- , ^, 

,j ™ '^ New \ork Clergyman. 

Mr. Williams ^, ^ 

County Constable. 



COSTUMES OF THE CHA[[AGTERS. 

Arthur Arlington p-,. , ^, . 

CiUzen's Clothes. 

Nettie Walters pi • t- 

T-, .,,, i^i am Evenmg Dress. 

Mr. Walters Grey Wig and Beard, Citizen's Clothes 

Plato c •* i,i /^. . , 

Suitable Citizen's Clothes. 

JUNA LeMONT T^ , 

,, ^, ■••■■Dark Clothes. 

Mr. villers r> J 

Dressed according to his Callin- 

George Sterling n, .,, ^ j -r,, "' 

^ ♦-'Rothes Gay and Flash V 

Joe E0BIN.SON ") 

Mark Star (• „ 

Bob Manks ( Commonly Dressed. 



[Entered according to Act of Congress, A. I) 18 
office of the Librctrian of Congress at Washington.] 



by Jones Kelly, ?« the 



TMP96-006518 



Al}]KrCTEl). 



A Drama in Five Acts, 



[All R[(;hts Reskrved.] 



BY JONES KELLY, 



A LLE(4HEN Y : 

Fkintei) by Tho.'^. Corde t^- Co., 120 Pennsyt>vania Avj:nue. 

l.S.SO. 



CHARACTEf[S IN THE Df[AMA. 

Arthue Arlington. 

Mr. Walters . ru • r^ 

An Ohio Farmer. 

Nettie Walters t,- r^ i 

ills IJatighter. 

Plato . . 

An Air lean. 

JtiNA Lemont , ^ 

A Quadroon. 

George Sterling . ,r.,, . 

, A vjllain. 

Joe Eobinson \ 

^ ,, ( His Confederates. 

Bob Manks ) 

Mr. ViLLERS A New York Clergymnn 

Mr. Williams ...County Constable. 



COSTUMES OF THE CHAl^ACTERS. 

Arthur Arlington Citizen's Clothes 

Nettie Walters pi,i„ j,^^^.^^„ ^^^^^ 

Mr. Walters Grey Wig and Beard, Citizen's Clothes. 

^^-'^^ Suitable Citizen's Clothe.s. 

JUNA Lemont Dark Clothes. 

Mr. Villers Dressed according to his Calling 

George Sterling clothes Gay and Flashy. 

Joe Robinson ^ 

Mark Star y n ^ -r^ , 

„ ( Commonly Dressed. 

Bob Manks ) 



JEnterf according to Act of Congress, A. D. 1880, hy Jones Kelly, in the 
office of the lytbrarian of Cor.gress at Washington.] 



ABDUCTED. 



ACT I. 

SCENE I. — Hear of Cottage. Flat representing Barn Yard- 
Tall tree. [Arthur /oti/if/ leaning against the Tree.] 
Enter Nettie, r., crossing left with pan of corn. 
Nettie. 
Chick, chick, chick, chick. 

Exit Arthur, l. 

Contimie Nettie — Chick, chick, chick, &c. 

Enter Arthur, l. 

Nettie. 
Why, good evening, Arthur; where did you come from ? 

Arthur. 
From the poplar tre«, Nettie. I have been watching you feeding 
those domestic pets, until I have become almo.st jealous. \_To the fowls.'] Be- 
gone, ye feathered favorites; I would claim all the attention of this fairy for 
a moment. Shoo ! begone. Shoo ! shoo ! 

Nettie. 

Arthur! you are scaring all my pets. 

Arthur. 

1 have not scared my pet yet, I see. [Taking the pan from her and 
throwin g corn off left.'} Let me assure them I am not a destroyer. [Suddenly 
emptying the pan of its entire contents.'] There, take it all, and feed to your 
hearts content, you feathered reprobates. 

Nettie — [T&king his arm.] 
Conie, let's away into the house. 

Exit into cottage, right. 

SCENE II. 

Country roadside — hills and woods. 

Enter Robinson and Mark Star, l. 

RoBiirsoN. 

Tell you what, Mark, this lay is a good one. Sterling told me, if he 

didn't succeed in bringing the gal to terms by moral suasion, (and I 

kinder calculate he won't succeed, for that gal aint no way sweet on him,) 

that he'd plump down $100 if we'd "Charlie Koss " her, and take her to the 

lake side cave. 

Star. 
Well, yes ; that's very good as far as the job goes ; but I don't reckon 
I'm going to run the risk of playing checkers with my nose for no fifty dollar 
William. Let him multiply that by three, and then. count me in. 



Robinson. 
All right, that nobble has the sfiondulics, and we'll strike him for 
tlueo hundred. Sh I By Christopher! talk of Belzebub and his imps are sure 
to appear. Here comes Sterling and that fool of a Bob Manks. Blast him, 
if liL-'s in the job he'll give ns away. 

Enter Sterling and Bob Manks, r. 1 e. 

Robinson 
How are you, Gov'nor? Fine evening, aint it? 

Steklino. 
Yes, <|uiie. Rut conic, gentlemen, get together, I have a bone to 
pick with yon. [AH four come together, iiTERi,iNG and Robinson on the right, 
MAfiK and Bob on the left.] Now, gentlemen, I have a piece of work for you. 
Ydu know, Robinson, I was telling you last night. 

Robinson, 
Yt s, (Jiiv'iier, I was telling my friend, here; but he kinder shows 
his devil's foot about the price; and I rather think myself you orter 
make tiie booiy enough to fit it. 

Sterling. 
Well, now, gentlemen, you shouldn't be hard on me. I've oflTered you $100, 
and I think that is enough. 

Star. 
Weil, I don'r. I ain't goin' to ^et old Constable Williams on my trail 
for no such small sum. 

Sterling. 
Well, liow large must the booty be? Set your j)rice. 

Star. 
Make it tlu'ce lnmdred. 

Sterling. 
Great Christoi-hcr I Well, I guess it must be three hundred, and you do 
the job. 

Star, Robinson, Manks — [Together.] 
It's a bargain. Now lay your plans. 

Sterling. 
Well, now, attentif)n. Arthur Arlington — curses on him — will be there 
t<i-night, but he will stay imt a s'lort time, as he is going to Europe, and 
itiust leave for New York on the 8 train to-night. I make my call on Miss 
Nettie immediately after his departure, and — Well, that'> my business. At 
10 o'clock I will meet you in Cedar Grove, a short distance out the lane; there 
I will tell you if you must proceed, and what you must do. 

Robinson. 
All right! at ten o'clock. 

Sterling. 
Y. s, don't fail. Good night. [Exit R.l E.] 
Robinson, Star. 
<iood night. [Exit I,. 1 E.] 

SCENE III. 

Neatltj furnuhed room — Sofa, &c. 

Nettie and Arthur Arlington sitting on i<oJa. 

Arthur. 
Nettie, I have sad news for you. 

N ettie. 
O Arthur! what is it? Is it very sad? 

Arthur. 
Well — yes — no — that is — I cannot say that it will be such very sad news 
to you. It is this — I am going away. [Rising.] 



5 

Nettie — Why, Arthur, you are teasing; you know that it would be sad 

news — very sad news. How far are you going? how long will you stay ? [Bking'} 

Arthur — T am going to Europe, Nettie. I do not know how long I shall 

stay ; it may be a year, and it may be more ; but I cannot go willingly until 

you promise me something. 

Nettie — If my refusal to promise you, Arthur, will prevent you from going, 
I shall not promise. 

Arthur — Nettie, your refusal to promise would not prevent me from going, 
but might prevent me from ever returning. 
Nettie — What do you mean ? 

Arthur — I mean there would be nothing to return for. 

Nettie — Arthur, why speak thus in riddles? do you doubt my love for you? 
Think you I could refuse to promit^e you anytliing in my power to fulfill? 

Arthur — No, Nettie, I do not doubt your love; l)ut there maybe some 
reasons why you should refuse to prnmise what I would ask. 

Nettie — Then keep me no longer in suspense ; let me hear it that I may 
judge. 

Arthur — I will. [ Walking down centre, hnnds rlafiped.] Nettie, we are lovers, 
and have been such for one year past ; yet it is but now that ti;c cri>is of our 
destiny as lovers has come. I am about to leave .America, I know not what 
events may take place during my stay in Europe, wlience 1 am bound; but of 
one thing I hope to be assured — it is this — will you be my wife? will you wait 
for me? 

'Nettie— [Hesitatingly. 1 O, Artliur! — I — 1— this is so sudden! You must 
give me time to think. 

Arthur— Time to think, Nettie! I have not time to think; in fifteen 
minutes I must away. I have come to bid you all farewell. 
Nettie — But I am so young to nuike such a promise. 

Arthur — It is but a promise, Nettie; years may roll away before the ful- 
filment of it. Come, dearest, in one ii >ur fnmi n iw I shall be whirling over 
the rails at the speed of the wind ; what shall be my destiny? Will you wait 
for me? Speak, darling! I nuist away. 

Nettie — [CkiKping her hand.^t, and pJarinq them on his hosnm with npfurned face.] 
Yes. 

Arthur — God bless you ! [Kissing her.] Now 1 must away. Good-bye! 
Nettie — One moment — .A.re you not g.)ing to bid pa|)a farewell ? 
ARTHUR-Y'es, yes. I hrd almost forgotten him in this my monient^of 
happiness — aye, and 1 had almost forgotten, too, I uius. ask him for this faiiy 
liand. 

Nettie — [Laughing] O no, not a fairy hand— something stronger. I'll call 
papa. [Skipping to the door — calling] I'apa! papa! 

'Mr. YiA-LTEBS— [From without.] Aye, daughter. [Enter, left.] What is it, 
dear? [Seeing Arthur.] Good evening, Arthur, my noble lelh.w. [Crossing 
and shaking hands.] 

Nettie — Arthur has come to bid us all farewell ; lie is g.iiiig to Europe, papa. 
Mr. W. — Going to Euro[)e ! 

Arthur — Aye, and I am here on another en and, sir. 
Mr. W.— What is it, dear fellow? 

Arthur— [G'mspinf/ Nettie's^ hands.] Will you wiili--blessii)gs— give eon- 
sent — these hearts and hands unite? 

Mr. W.— [ Hands uplifted.] My soul consents; may heaven bless your lives 
and make them bright ! 

AnTUVR, right. Mr. Walters, ee»f re. IS kttie, left. 
Nettie and Arthur boio. 



Arthur. [^Kisshig Nettie's hands.'] 
Farewell, I must begone. \_Tuking both their haiids.'] 

Mr. Walters. 
Fiirewell. 

Nettie weeps. Exit Mr. Walters, left. 

Arthur. [Leadrng Nettie right.'] 
Weep not, darling. I will write to you. Farewell. 

Nettie. \_Feebly.] 
Farewell. 

Exit Arthur. Nettie returns to sofa, weeping. 

Arlhnr, dear fellow, you are gone ! how I shall miss you ! How dreary will 
the hours be tome; the morn shall bring no cheering light, the noonday sun 
no warmth, the eve no glorious sunset to admire; no music shall there be in 
the warble of the birds, no beauty in the scene around, no consolation in the 
hymn the evening songster sing.-, till you, my love, return and fill my soul with 
life i.gain. 

Nettie dill weeping. Enter Juxa, l., crossing to Nettie. 

JUNA 

Why do you weep, Nettie? has anything happened? 

Nettie. 
<) .luna ! is that you? Arthur Arlington has been here, bidding us all 
farewell; and I, like the silly girl that I am, have been weeping after him; 
l)ut, O J una ! it is so hard to see him go — so far — and I love him so. [ Weeping.] 

JUNA. 

Yes, yes; but you must become reconciled. I know it is hard, but 
yon must learn to bear such little troubles. You will meet many such in life, 
aye, greater (jnes, Nettie ; such as will wring your very heart-strings, cause 
that rosy color to leave your cheek, and almost rob you of your life. Think 
of me, Nettie! four years ago I was owned — so said the world — by a master. 
Plato served under the same master, but was strongly disliked by our oppressor. 
Plato was too wise, too intelligent, and so quick-tempered ; he oft resented an 
insult, or took the part of some poor victim of his master's tyranny. Once— I 
remember it s > well ! he called his master a coward. His master drew a pistol. 
I'lato dashed it from his hand, and struck him several blows; in the moment of 
his passion, lie graspjd him in a vise-like grip, raised him above his head, and 
burled him bleeding to the ground. I was standing near by; he ran, kissed 
me, and bade me farewell. Jn a moment he was gone — gone I knew not where. 
It nearly broke my heart, Nettie, fori loved him. He had not the fair com- 
jilexion, the flowing locks nor handsome face your Arthur has ; but he had a 
noble heart — be was manly — he was true! I never saw him after that till I 
met hiiu in your father's family ; and he told me how he had escaped north 
and met your father in the army; how your father had saved his life, and he 
had accompanied him home, resolved to do all in his power to repay the debt 
of gratitu(ie he owed. [Bell rings.] There'.s the door bell. [Rising.] Prepare 
to meet a visitor. [Exit L.] 

Nettie. 

Oh, who ran it be calling upon me at a time I least desire it, [Going 
to mirror and arranging kair.] There, I am ready. [Returning to sofa.] 

Re-enter Juna. [Hands Nettie card.] 

JuNA. 
Here is your visitor's card. 

Nettie. [Recoiling.] 
George Sterling ! 

JuNA. 
Yes, George Sterling. Nettie, beware of this man ; it is he of whom I spoke 



as my former master. It was he who treated Plato so cruelly, O Nettie, he is 
a villian ! — a fiend ! He will not hesitate to do anything to satisfy his desires. 
Beware of him, Nettie ! beware ! 

Nettie. 
Admit him, Jnna ; he is no favorite. [&!'< JuNA.] George Sterling ! oh, 
why does this man persist in paying attentions tome? I am sure I do not 
encourage him — I detest him ! He is insolent, impudent and ill-bred. I shall 
not treat him with respect. I will repulse him — or at least he shall know he's 
not at all welcome. 

[Enter George Sterling.] 
Sterling. 

Good evening, Miss Nettie. 

Nettie. ICoklly.'] 
Good evening, sir. Be seated. \_Handin(j him a chair.] 

Sterling. 
This is a lovely evening. 

Nettie. 
Very. 

Step.ling. 
Yes, Miss Nettie, a lovely evening. The moon sheds her silvery light ui)on 
the beautiful scene about us; her flickering companions, the stars, seem to 
mingle their rays with hers, and flood the earth with a halo that's divine. 
Earth responds and hurls a refl^'ction to the sky. Aye, all this is beauty. Miss 
Nettie; but it cannot be compared with the beauty upon which I now have the 
pleasure to gaze. That beauty is in your face; but there seems to be a cloud 
that overshadows it — what is it? Is there a storm brewing? or have the winds 
of fortune wafted clouds of trouble to the skies? — which brings about this 
gloom. [ylsicZe.] I rather thiidc tliat's pretty. 

Nettie. 
I do not understand you, sir. 

STKHLIN(i. 
I refer to your looks — you look troubled to-night. 

Nettie. 

I'm not in the best of humor, sir. 

Sterling. 
I'm sorry to hear that, as I have a, f ivor to ask. 

Nettie. 
A favor to ask of me, Mr. Sterling ! 

Steklin(j. 
Yes, a favor; though I fear to ask it in ilie face of ill-humor. 

Nettie. [Haughtily.'] 
Sir, what is the favor you would ask? 

Sterling. 
If I make it known, you will pardon the abrupt manner in which I speak? 

Nettie. 
I will. 

Sterling. 

Then I will to the point at once. We have been acquainted for some time, 
and my frequent calls upon you have been indications of my esteem for you. 
Allow me to word my admiration as follows: I have been charmed by your 
beauty, fascinated by your iuanners, and have actually fallen in love with you. 

Nettie. [Scornfully.'] 
Sir, you will jjlease abridge preparatory compliments, and to the point at once. 



8 

Sterling. 
1 will. As I have said, I love you. What will satisfy love? what will 
bring contentment to the heart where love is longing for sympathy — [^Rising, 
walking towards Nettie] — Nettie, you understand me ; you know the favor I 
would ask — do you return that love? — will you — 

Nettie. 
Enough, sir ; I understand you. Your love is not returned. You seek a 
hand you shall not get. I have known you long, and I have despised you as 
long. I am ac(juainted with you — yes, too well to favor such a suit. You are 
insolent, impudent, and tread upon forbidden ground. I have not encouraged 
this l)y word or deed, and you have dared to speak that of which you should 
not even think. Were you in any way deserving of esteem or respect I might 
have spoken mildly ; but you I detest, despise and loathe ! 

Steeling. 
Beware, Miss ! you may repent those angry words. 

Nettie. 
Sir, do not threaten me. I have protection here. 

Stekling. 
Your protection would avail you little. Miss, were I disposed to be hostile ; 
but I meant not to offend you, and if I have done so ] beg your pardon. 

Nettie. 
You have offended me, sir, beyond pardon. 

Sterling. 
May I not apologize? 

Nettie. 
No, sir. 

Sterling. 
Let ns be friends again, I beg of you. 

Nettie. 
Back, sir! do not add poison to the cup of villany you have already filled. 

Sterling. 
I would advise you to be more civil. 

Nettie. 
Civility were wasted on such a wretch as you. I desire this interview to 
come to a close, sir. There is the door. [Pointing to the door.l 
Sterling. lAngrily.l 
What ! drive me from the house ! There must be an end' to this. Now that 
you have treated me with such contempt, you shall know my purpose. I have 
sworn to have you for my wife, and shall fulfil my oath. You shall repent 
these angry words, for I will one day have you in my power. 

Nettie. \_Pointing to the door.'] 
Go! 

Sterling. 
I will not go, [^N ETTiE pulls bell.l Oh, that's your game, is it? [Crossing t..'] 

lEnter Plato.] 
Nettie. 
Plato, show this man the door. 

Sterling. 
[Aside.'] Ha! Plato! [Aloud.] I'm not yet ready to go, sir. Y^'ou are 
dismissed. 

Nettie. 
How dare yon, sir? Plato, I request it — show him to the door. 

Sterling. 
You dog — begone ! 

Plato. [Pointing to the door.] 
Go! 



9 

SXERI.INr,. 

1 will not go. 

Plato. 
Go, or I may have the pleasure of conducting you. 

Sterling. [Aside.] 
I have had a taste of your infernal black muscle, else I would not go. [Exit L.] 

Tableau. 
Plato, right. Nettie, centre. 

CUKTAIN. 



ACT II. 

SCENE I. — Country roadside — hills and woods. 
Enter Bob Manks, l., running across R. 

KoBiNSON. [Outside.] 
Stop, yer blarsted fool ! 

Enter Robinson, Manks and Mark Star, l. 

Star. [Pointing pistol.] 
Yes ; stop, ye infernal f.carecrow, or I'll bore ye. 

Manks. 
Oh— Oh ! Put up that pistol. I'll stop — I'll stop. 

Star. 
Will ye come to tearmes? 

Manks. 
Yes — yes ! I'll come to tearmes. 

Star. [Pointing pistol.] 
There, now, listen to me. We wouldn't have took ye into this, Manksey, 
only as a pall we don't want to go back on ye ; but yer such a blarsted fool 
that we won't make an equal divvey with ye. 

Manks. 
You won't ! Then I'll be gol darned if I don't give you away. 

Star. [ Raises pietoL] 
Yer will, will ye? 

Manks. 
Oh, no ! Put up that pistol — I won't. 

Robinson. 
Now look here, Manksey, we don't want any more of this foolin'. Listen to 
what we're goin' to say. We'll give ye fifty dollars out of this job, and that's 
all we will give ye. 

Star. 
Yes, and if yer kick any more we'll jist bore ye and kiver ye up. 

Manks. 
All right — all right — I won't kick. 

Robinson. [Aside.] 
Ha! ha! Aint he a braver? Let's have some fun with him, Mark. 

Star. 
All right. We'll make him dance; 

Robinson. 
I say, Bob, the gals around here tell me you are kind of an artist. 

Manks. [Bracing up proudly.] 
Well, yes ; I am a rather a sort of genius — in fact I'm a school teacher, an 
artist, poet and a dancing master. 



10 

Star. 
Is til at so ; well, now that our bargain is sealed, s'pose yon give us a lesson 
in dancing, and sing us one of yer original songs. 

Manks. 

Well, now, gentlemen, I'd like to accommodate you, but the situation isn't 
suitable; open air is always injurious to one's articulating organs; besides, I 
am siirt of rhemnatic to-night, and [suddenly geftinc/ lame] I don't feel much 
like dancing. 

Star. 

Oh, well, Bob, the open air ain't goin' to hurt your 'ticulatin' organs, and a 
jig will be good for yer rheumatics — so hop out here. 

Manks. 

No, gentlemen, I positively decline. I'm not able. [Starfinr/ off.] 

Star. [Points pistol.l 
Come back here and give us a jig. 

Manks. 

Oh, most certainly ! Gentlemen, I don't mean to offend you, but look! the 
birds are soaring free and unmolested in the air; the squirrels skip and chirp 
about these diggings happy as the sunbeams; and no one asks them to sing a 
son" or dance a jig against their will. I hope you are not going to compel me. 

Star. 
Well, yes, I kinder calculate we are. The birds have gone to roost, and the 
squirrels ar; in their nests; so we'll have to fall back on you, Bobbie. Come, 
give us a jig — we're tired wailing. 

Manks. 

Well, T — I — -gentlemen, my soul is as big as the billowy main; ray heart is as — 

ROBLNSON. 
Oh, come, we don't want any more of eloquent speeches; git out here and 
give us a jig. . . , 

Star points pistol. 

Manks. 

Oh, certainly, gentlemen. 

[Crossing centre, begins to dance, looking upivard.] 

Star. 

Don't elevate your head so. 

[Manks lowers his head, looking at his feet, hut gradually raises 
the former, and looks up again.] 

Star. [Pointing pistol.] 
Djwn with your head, or I'll blow it off. 

[Manks drops his head quickly ami diwes fnriously.] 

Star. 
Sing. 

Manks sings. 

Robinson. 

Oh, give us a rest. We're sick. 

Star. 
Get out of here; you're a fraud. 

Both kick Manks off stage, l, 

Manks. [ Yelling.] 
Oh -Oh— Oh- &c. 



11 

SCENE II. 

Railroad Depot. Train of cars up across stage. 
Passengers moving to and fro. 
Enter Arthur Arlington, followed by Plato ivith valise. 
Arthur. [Taking valise from Plato.] 
Farewell, Plato, my good fellow, take care of yourself; aye, ami I have 
another charge to leave with yon ; I have a strange presentiment that all is not 
well at Mr. Walter's house. Instinct teaches me that there is danger hovering 
over this family. Promise me, Plato, that you will stand a watchful pro- 
tection against all possible harm that may come to Mr. Walters and one— a 
treasure to me — you understand me, Plato. 

Plato. 

Yes, Mr. Arlington, I vinderstand you ; and I promise you that while a heart 
.still beats within this bosom, and blood still flows unchecked witliin these veins, 
and strength within these limbs, no harm shall come to Mr. Walters or his 
family that I can guard against. 

Enter Sterling, l. 
Sterling. 
Yes, Mr. Arlington ; and I promise you that Avhile a heart still beats within 
this bosom, and love for Nettie Walters rages fierce within, and life remains 
within this frame, and blood still flows unchecked wiihin these veins and 
strength is in these limbs, no harm shall come to Mr. Walters or his family — 
provided they don't oppose me in my matrimonial aspirations to his daughter. 

Arthur. 

I have no time to waste on a hound of your type, else tomorrow's sun would 
find you in the grave. 

Plato 

Say but the word, sir, and though my heart be torn from its pulses, I'll tear 
him piece-meal on the spot 

Arthur. 

Heed him not, Plato ; it would only cost you trouble, [laking Ins liaitd.] 
Farewell. 

Depot Master. 
All aboard. 

Plato. 
Farewell, Mr. Arlington; may heaven bless and bring you safely back. 
Arthur boards train. 
Sterling. [ Calls after Am.] 
Farewell, Mr. Arlington, I'll keep my promise; I'll protect your fairy. 

Arthur. [From the platform of the train.'] 
Farewell, George Sterling; and I'll keep my promise that when I return, if 
aught of harm from you, has come to Mr. Walters or his family, I'll track the 
earth o'er land and sea — from east to west — from north to south ; or tread bare- 
foot the sands of the Great Sahara; but I'll have the satisfaction and grati- 
fication of having sent a bullet through your heart. [Train moves out.'] 

SCENE Ul.—Eden Grove. 
Enter Robinson, Star and Manks, r. 
Robinson. 
Here's the .spot ; I reckon it's about ten o'clock — aint just got a time-piece, 
but I think I'm right. 

Star. 

Yes, I think so, and I hope Sterling won't be long ; I feel sorter anxious to 
know if we're goin' ter get the job. 



12 
Robinson. 

Well, there's not miicli doubt o' that, there's more chance of Mr. Sterling 
coming to us with a few locks of his hair gone, for that gal's a tartar when 
she's started; or maybe he'll be minus a few front teeth, for they have an 
African up th?re that ain't no ways gentle when he's got his dander up — he'd 
as soon chaw ye up as look at ye. 

Manks. 

I say, Robinson — 

Robinson. 

Mr. Robinson, if you please. 

Manks. 

Oh, certainly, sir, certainly, I beg pardon. I was going to say, Mr. Robinson, 
is there any danger of meeting this cannibal like Ethiopian in our j<ib to-night? 

Star. 

Well, I kinder calculate there is, for he'll be there, some place, and we'll 
have to be alert to keep out of his clutches. 

Manks. [^Shrugging his should ers.l 
Well I guess I'll just keep watch on the outside, while you gentlemen steal 
I he gal. 

Star. 

Well, I guess you'll just follow, and keep watch on the inside. 

Manks. 

Oh, certainly, gentlemen, if you say so. 

Enter George Sterling, l. 
Star and Kobinson. {^Together^ 
Good evening, Mr. Sterling. 

Sterling. 

Oh, blast you ! there's no time for formalities just now; we have something 
more important to attend to. 

Robinson. 

Very well, wliat is your business? did your gal smile on you to-night? 

Sterling. 
Well, I am not just in the humor to put up with insolent cpiestions to-night. 
My business is this : the young lady defied me, and 1 must have her in my 
power within 24 hours from now. 

Star. 

So you give us the job? 

Sterling. 
Yes. 

Robinson. 

Well, give us your directions. 

Sterling. 

Be patient, and I will. In the first place, meet me at the rear of Mr. Walters' 
house at 12 o'clock to-night; there I'll direct you how to enter the house, 
entrap the bird, and that did, we will ]iroceed to the Lakeside Cave wiih our 
captive. 

Robinson. 

Kerect, your plans are well laid ; and now, Mr. Sterling, when do we get the 
booty ? 

Sterling. 
When you finish the job. 

Star. 
Well, that don't just suit. 

Sterling. 
Ha ! vou are goiu"; to show vour devil's foot aijain I 



13 

Star. 

Well, I reckdii I am. We don't generally do a job witlioiit i)ait pay in advanc\_'. 

Sterling. 

The deuce you say ! well, suppose you don't get it; 

Star. 

Then we don't do the job. 

Sterling. 
Confound you, how much do you want. 

Star. 
Just half the amount agreed upon. [Sterling hands Star th£. money.'] Thank 
you ; we'll meet you at the appointed place. [E.rif Eobinson and IStar, r.] 

Sterling. 
Now, Miss Walters, in 24 liours you will be in my power, and I'll break 
your proud spirit or I'll break your heart. 

jManks. [Tapping Sterling on the shoitlder.'] 
Aw — aw — Mr. Sterling, you will allow me to keep watch on ihc outside of 
the house, I suppose. 

STj:KLiN(i. [ Turning round and drikii,g him.] 
There, you infernal fool ! that's for your insolence. [Exit L.] 

MA'SKHjalla ivhen struck, ri'ies and hobbles off stage, R. 



SCENE IV. — iSecoiid dory hall in Mr. Walter's house. 

Enter Robinson, Star and Manks, masked, r. 

Cross stealthilij. Exit, l. Scream outside. 

He-enter all, leading ^ ettik, gagged, crossing r. Another scream outside. 

Enter J una, rushing to the rescue. 

Juna. 
Help! Help! Help! 

A straggle ensues, 3vn a finally overcome and gagged. Exit all, R. 
Enter J\iR. Walters, l. 

Mr. Walters. 

Sto}), villains! Stop! (^h, heavens! my daughter! my daughter ! \_Knock- 
inrj at the door.] Plato! Pldlo ! 

I'^n.ier I^lato. 

i'LATO. 

What is it, sir? What has hapiieutd ? 

Mil. Walters. 

Quick, Plato, quick! saddle the fleetest horse in the stable. Fiendish 
villains have stolen my daughter and Juua ! Away to the rescue — stay — 
stay! [Taking a rusty sword from the wall.] Here, my good ieliow, Ibuckling 
sword about Plato's waist,] here is the trusty blade that saved your life— take it. 
Save my daughter! save my daughter! save my daughter! \_Si)iksinto aeliair.] 

Plato. 

There, there, sir! \_PLacing his hand upon the suord] 1 shall n<,t use it. 
\_Clenching his fists with outstretched arms] See! Ui-d has given n.e weapons 
strong as a lion's limbs. Now hear me. I am oti' to the rescue, and J wijl 
bring back your daughter safe and unharu.ed, (.r I will uuver darken ilie door 
of your house again. [Exit, R.] 

Mr. Walters, [liising and tottering to a ^vindoiv.] 

Ha! brave fellow! into the stable he goes. Make huste, Plato, save my 
daughter! Ha! ha! there the villains liy. Ho! gallant i'lato 1 he mounts 



14 

tlie saddle! now Plato, away — away he goes — fly, Plato, fly! Capture them, 
and do not spare a single one. Oh, heaven, save my daughter — my daughter! 
\_Sink^ to the chair. Suddenly rises again and grasps hat and cane.l Ha ! I will 
follow them though I faint by the way. God give me strength to save my 
danghter. 

Curtain. 

ACT III. 

SCENE I. — Country highway. Lake in distance. Moonlight. 
Enter George Sterling and Robinson, leading captives. 
Steri.ing. 
Conic on, boys, we're in for a race. The nigger's on a horse. If we can but 
reach the lake we are safe. 

KOBINSON. 

All riglit. We'll loose no time, s(; drive ahead. {^Exit, L.] 
Enter Plato, r. 
Plato. 
Stop, villains, or I'll fire. [PovRth pistol. Suddenli/ lowers it.] No, no! it 
would never do to shoot ; hut here, [shaking his fist] he' U tiiinlc he's shot who 
feels the weight of this. [Exit, L.] 

SCENE U— Country road. 
Enter Mr Walters. 
Mk. Walters. 
Tims far on the villains' track ! [Gasping for breath.'] Heaven give me 
strength — I faint — I I'aint. [*S'('/iA-s in a faint.] 

Enter Policeman, r. 
Policeman. 
Hello! what's the matter, here? wliat can be the meaning of all this? I 
have just seen a horseman dashing at break-neck speed up the highway, and 
now I find an aged traveller fainting in the road. [Takes flash from his pocket, 
and places it to Mk. Walters' lips.] Here, old man, take some of this, it will 
revive you. 

Mr. Walters. [Eeebly.] 
Ah! where am I? who is this? Ha! villains! so you have another captive. 

Policeman. 
No, old man ; I'm an officer from Painsville, out with a warrant for a certain 
individual in this neighborhood. 

Mr. Walters. 
An officer, then you're the man I wish to see. [Grasping his cane and struggling 
to his feet.] Go, raise an alarm — bring a force of officers; a crime has been 
conmitted ; my daughter has been abducted. 

Policeman. 
Abducted ! aye, that is a crime, old man ! And what direction shall I lead 
in pursuit? 

Mr. Walters. 
Out the highway, toward the lake. 

Policeman. 
Ha ! then I saw a horseman in pursuit. 

Mr. Walters. 
Aye, that was Plato — gallant fellow! Come — away — bring assistance! 

Policeman. 
Aye, that I will, and that in haste. [Exit, L.] 

Mr. Walters. 
Heaven grant it! but I cannot wait; I must attempt to save mv daughter. 

[Exit L.] 



15 

SCF-^NE III.— Bocks by the Lakeside. 

Enter Sterling, Star and RoBrNSON, tvith captives, i-. 
Sterling. 
Into the gulch, boys ; on to the cave and we are safe. [Exit all, R.] 
Enter INFanks, l. 
Manks. 
Hold on, gentlemen, don't desert me. [Looking around bewilderedly.'] Where 
have they gone? Surely they have not jumped over the cliff I [Looking over 
the rocks.] 

Enter Plato. 
Plato. [Grasping him by thr coat tail.'] 
Now I have one of you. 

Manks. 
Oh — oh! what's that? O Lord! spare me ! spare me ! 

Plato. 
No, I will not spare you. Go to the fate you much deserve. [Pushing Jam 
up the rocks.'] 

Enter Sterling. 
Sterling. 
Back, you dog ! [-Fires pistol at Plato.] 

Manks. [Clapping his hand to his car.] 
Oh — oh! My ear- n)y ear ! Oh, save ! 

FLA.ro pmhes him over the rocks and rushes at Stirling. 
Plato. 
Now, sir, you sliall follow your companion. [They struggle.] 

SrERr.iNG. [Drawing a dagger.] 
Willi? We shall see. [Stabbing him. Plato falls to the .^itage.] That's the 
way I serve a nigger. [Exit, k.] 

Plato. [Attempting to rise.] 
Ha! villain! You thought to finish me, but I am worth six dead men yet. 
[Rising with difficulty and leaning against the rocks.] 
Enter Mr. Walters. 
Mr. Walters. 
Ha! Plato! are you hurt? 

Plato. 
Mr. Walters, you here ? 

Mr. Walters. 
Aye, I could not re^t ;tt home; but are you wounded? 

I'lato. 
Only a flesh wound, sir; I shall soon recover. 

Mr. Walters. 
The assas.-ins hnve escaped? 

Plato. 
Yes, for the time being; but see, this wound shall serve to mind me of the 
debt I owe George Sterling, and I sinill not rest until I've lodged him in a 
prison cell. 

Curtaix. 

ACT IV. 

SCENE I. — Parlor in, a New Y'ork hotel. 

Arthur seated at table, r., reading newspaper. Mr. Villerh same. 

Hotel guests seated here and there. 

Mr. Villers. [Rising.] 

Well, Arthur, you are here at the Lawrence Hotel, one of ihe fine.-it in New 

York. I am most agreeably surprised to meet you here. 



Hi 

Arthur. 
Yes, iincle, and I to n-.eet 3'ou. 

Mr. Villeks. 
Si) you .sail at noon. 

Arthur. 
Yes; and although 1 anticipate a pleasant voyage across the waters, I am 
loatli to make this start, for I leave friends behind me, with whom I cannot 
but feel sad to part. 

Mr. Villers. 
Ah ! my dear boy, I appreciate your devotion. It is hard to leave friends 
and kinsmen and go into a strange land, even though we have communication 
with tlicm. Life is so uncertain that we cannot feel at rest in mind away from 
home. 

Ejiter Messenger Boy, r. Crossing to Mr. Villers a«fZ Arthur. 

Messenger Boy. 
Mr. Artluir Arlington. 

Arthur. 
Here, my lad. A telegraphic dispatch? 

Messenger Boy. 

Yes, sir 

Arthur receives message formally. Exit Messicnger Boy, r. 

Arthur. 
Well, uncle, here is pleasant news. \^Reads aloud.'] London, England. 
Mr. a. Arlington — Owing to the delay of business, the nature of which 
you vinderstand, we, the undersigned, hereby request you to postpone your 
voyage for one month from date, at which time will be able to transact busi- 
ness with you. Yours respectfully. Miller, MoClure & Co. 

Mr. Villers. 
Ah, that is news indeed ! then you need not sail ! 

Arthur. 
No, but I will remain in New York a short time and transact some business. 

Enter Constable Williams, r., moving among guests as if inquiring 

for some one, excitedly. One of the guests points out 

Arthur Arlington. 

Constable. [ Walking across,.] 

Pardon me, sirs, have I the honor of addressing Mr. Arthur Arlington. 

Arthur. 
That is my name, sir ; I am at your service. 

Constable. 
Sir, I have news for you. 

Arthur. 
Ah ! indeed, good or bad ? 

Constable. 
Very bad news, sir. I suppose you recognize me — Constable Williams, of — 

Arthxtr. 
Yes, sir, I recognized you when first I saw you ; [^anxiously] but what is 
the news? 

Constable. 
It is contained in this message, which I received a few moments ago. \_Hands 
him message.] 

Arthur. [Reads. Jumps up excitedly.] 
The villains! my coat — my hat. Come on, Mr. Williams. There's no time 
to be lost if ever — 

Mr. Villers. 
AVhat's the matter, Arthur? what has happened? 

Arthur. 
No time for explanation now, uncle; there's more than precious lives at 
slake. A moment may be fatal. 



17 

Constable. 
Be calm, my friend ; a cool head is more requisite now than anger or excite- 
ment. Hark yon, we cannot get a train before 3.30, and must be patient and 
prepare for a hasty trip. 

Arthur. 
But— but— 

Constable. 
No use to " but," Mr. Arlington ; there is no other alternative, so we mu.-t 
wait, and might as well do so quietly. 

Mr. Villers. 
I'm dying to know what the news is; explain the mystery. 

Arthur. 
Yes, yes, we must wait. [Takes a chair and /mjicZ.s Williams the (h'spatch.] 
Kead it to my uncle, Mr. Williams. [Buries his face in his hands. Hotel guests 
croivd around.'] 

Constable. [Reads aloud.] 

Painsville, Ohio. 
Mr. J. Williams — Your presence is immediately required. The abduction 
of twa females has taken place at the house of Mr. W:ilters, in the suburbs of 
this city, on the nijiht of the 9th inst. Up to date abductors have been tracked 
to the Lakeside ClifF. Lose no time in immediate response. 

W. HALL, Mayor. 
Mr. Villers. 
Ah, that is terrible ! and no through train till 3.30 ! Do not despair, Arthur, 
my boy ; be of good cheer. You may get off before that yet. [E.rit, L.] 

Constable. 
Yes, Mr. Arlii.glon, be of good cheer; if these villains have been tracked to 
the Lakeside CliflT, they will liave no means of escape excei)t by concealment 
in some cavern or cave. In ihis they will be tracked. 

Arthur. 
Yes, Mr. Williams; but I dread to think of tlie fate of their captives while 
in conceahuent. I know who is chief of the abductors; he is a villain of the 
deepest dye. 

Constable. 
Ah! you suspect somebod}'. Who is it? 

Arthur. 
No, I will not name him. I may he mistaken. But we must prepare to leave. 
Enter Mr. Villers. 
Me. Villers. 
Yes, be quick; a cab awaits us at tiie door, and I have obtained a special 
train to take us through. 

Arthur. [Grasping his hand.] 
God bless — uncle! and you are going with us? 

Mr. Villers. 
Yes, for your sake I will go. 

Arthur. 
Then we will away; and by the gods of Konian creeds I swear the villains 
shall be brought to justice, if I spend my life in bringing them. 

Tableau. 
Coi^^. Williams, 7-ight. Arthur, centre. Mr. Villers, left. 

SCENE II. — Coimlry road. 

Enter Bob Manks, clothes sticking to him. 

Manks. 

Well, I'll be teetolally goldarned if that wasn't a ducking. I rather think 

I don't want to get into the clutches of that muscular Ethiopian any nxrc — it 

isn't healthy. Glory, talk about your mariners and divers! if I didn't go to 



I lie hottoiu of the deep I don't know water from hard cider, and I reckon that 
uLnt so. [Looking off right.^ O Lord! O Lord! there are cops, us sure as 
pumpkins grow on vines. 

Enter Two Policemen, r. 
Policeman No. 1. 

Ho, tliere ! what's the matter? What are you doing out so early? 

Manks. 

O Lord ! gentlemen ; liclieve me, I had nothing to do with it. 

Policeman No. 1. 

Hadn't anything to di) with what? 

Manks. 

() Lord ! iiutiiing, gentlemen. I — -I — • 

Policeman No. 2. 

Alia! that's one of the scoundrels as did the kidnappin>r up to Mr. Walter's 
h )usc. [Grufips Manks by collar.l Now we'll just m.ucli liim off to jail. 

Manks. 

oil ! (ill! Spiiro me, gentlemen, spare me! I am inn cent, truly I :im. Ob, 
1 will d ) anyihing fur you. I'll give you anything — my coat, my liat, my 
watch— O Lui\l — anything. .Just let me go. 

Policeman No. 1. 

We'll, stop that, harangue, and tell us where the g;i!s arc takui to. 

Manks. 
O L >rd — ye^ — yes. I'll tell you anyihing. Just ht mc i/o. 
Policeman No. 2. 

()U, don't fool any time with that fellow. I rtd-on ilic ft Ih ws as have the 
gills are caught in their own trap, and you may dcj'cnd on ii tiie hoys will 
hold ihem there till Constable William.s arrive.". 

Policeman No. 1. 

oh, ho ! .So Williams is coming, is he? 

Policeman No. 2. 
Yes, we sent a telegra[ihic dispatch for him this morning. 

Manks. 
Oentlem 'ii, this is an outrage ; let me go, I am a jieac '^ble ciiiz.'ii in a jii-ace- 
al)!e community. Can't a man travel along the jiublic highway without being 
molested? being stopped and roughly used by such r.iguc- as you ? f^et me 
go, I say, or truly, if there is law iu the land, you shall suIIlt foi- this highway 
rohl)ery. I am a man, gentlemen, I am a man — [Policeman No. 1 shows mace] 
O.i ! O Lard ! [)!ease don't strike me, don't ! 

Policeman No. 2. 
He fjiiiet, then, and walk along peaceably, or we'll h:ive t > strike you and 
put the nippers on you too. Come, we'll off' with him to jail. [Exit, R.] 

SCENE III — Inlerior of a cave. 
JuNA and Nettie szated on. a boulder, K. Enter Stekling, l. 

^-TEHLtNG. 
Well, Miss Juna, I am your master once again. 

J UNA. 
Master of the situation, sir, not me. 

Stei^li.vg. * 

Well, h ive it your own way ; at any rate I am mas'er, and I have just sent 
word to Mr. Walters to abandon his pursuit or I wuuld sacrifice your life to 
l)ay for his troul)le. 

JuNA. 
Li leed, sir, I d ) n .t doubl it. I know you are c :)ld-l)looded enough to com- 



19 

mit such a dastardly deed ; but think not to frighten me by your threats, for 
death would be a welcome visitor were I wholly at your mercy. 

Sterling. 
Ha! ha! a pretty speech, a lively tune, my bird ; I enjoy it, ])ut I think you'll 
change your music by and by, and sing anotiier song. But here's my favorite, 
[Turns to Nettik] this is my ideal bird. Well, Nettie, what do you think of 
our lifle ab ide? isn't it romantic? just the place for love and courtship. 

Nettie. 
George Sterling, if you have any of the principles which behmg to true 
manliness, you will respect us — weak women that we are — in your power — and 
leave us. 

Sterling. 
Well, I have some of the principles which belong to a true man, and they 
are just the cause of my seeking your company. I have the heart of a man, 
and the heart of any n;an is capable of love. My heart is filled with it — oh, 
you need not curl your lips in scorn — you once rejected me ; but remember, 
you are now in my power. 

Nettie. 
You have no power over me, sir, unless it be to take my life, and in that you 
can use your pleasure. I had rather die than listen to such avowals of what 
you call love. 

Sterling. 
You still retiiin your stubborn manner, 1 perceive; well, I will leave you to 
consider it, but remember what I have sworn, the sooner you give me your 
hand the better. [Exit, L.] 

Nettik. 
Give to him my hand! I'd rather use that hand to sink a dagger through 
my heart. 

JUNA. 
O no, Nettie ! you must do nothing so desperate ; however, we must escape 
from this place — it is worse than death to remain longer. We must make a 
dasli for liberty. 

Nettie. 
O Juna, what shall we do? how can we free ourselves? 

JuNA ivalks R , picks up two pistols from a ledge and returns to Nettie. 

Juna. 

There is means of escape within our reach, Nettie ; see, these were left by 
Sterling and his mates. The villains seemed to think we women knew no use 
of them. 

Nettie. 

O Juna! shall we use them? 

Juna. 

Not unless it is necessary. Ha ! there they come. Courage, Nettie ; do not 
fail to play your part. Conceal your weapons. [Conceal pistols.] 
Enter Sterling and Star, l. 
Star. 

Well, how are the birds by this time? W^hy, how do you do, my pretty ? 
\_Takes a step towards Juna.] 

J UNA. [Leveling pistol.] 
Not another step, sir! it is dangerous. 

Sterling. 
Ha! that will never do. Give up that pistol. [Talces a step towards Jvf! a.] 

Nettie. [Pointing pistol.'] 
Not another step, sir! it is dangerous. 



20 

Sterlinc;. 
Come now, girls, this is a foolish move; what can you hope to gain by it? 

JUNA. 

We can at least demand respect, and with these weapons in our hands we 
can even demand our freedom. 

Sterling. 

Curse you, Mark, this is your work. ^ Why did you leave those pistols here? 
[Enter Robinson, r.] Ha ! Well, let "us hear your demands, and see how^ 
quick we accede to them. 

Robinson steals up in the rear o/ Jttna and Nettie, grasps their arms, 
and takes tveapons from them. Both girls scream. 

Robinson. 
Quite a brave little move, ladies. I admire your pluck. 

Sterling. 
And I too ; but I would advise thein not to — 

Enter Mr. Walters, r. Enshes at Sterling with cane uplijted. 

Mr. Walters. 
Ha! villains, I have reached you at last. Now, sir, you shall sufler the 
penalty of your crime. 

Nettie. [Running towards him.'] 
O father ! my dear father ! 

Robinson rushes hetiveen them, pushes her hack, and grasps the old 
man by the arm. 

Robinson. 
Here, old man, not so fast; you have jumped into a lion's den this time. 

A struggle ensues, during ivhich Mr. Walters j»rof/«ces a pidol, fires 
at Sterling a>irf Stkvl falls. Sterling draws dagger and rushes at 
Mr. Walters. 

Sterling. 

Curses on you, old man ; I'll pay you for that. 

Nettie. 
O heaven ! my father — do not harui him. [Falls on her knees at Sterling's 
feet.'] Kill me; sink your knife right through my heart, but spare — oh, spare 
my poor father ! my aged father ! 

JuNA. [Rushing tow%rd Sterling.] 
Oh, do not kill ! surely you have not tiie heart ! 

Robinson. [Pushing her back.] 
Yes, he has the heart ; you need not interfere. [Points pihtol at her.] 

Sterling. 

Spare your father? Would he have spared me? did he not attempt to take 
my life ? 

Nettie. 
Yes, yes ; but it was for my sake. Oh, have mercy on him ! 

JuNA. 

Well, shoot me, sir; I am ready to die. 

Robinson. 
But I am not quite ready to kill you yet. 

Enter Plato, r. 

Plato. 

No, not quite, yet. [ROBINSON leaps back.] 



21 

Enter Arthur, l. tStrikes Sterling's dagger tvith his oxvn. 
Artpiur. 
I have business with you, sir. ■ 

Mr. Walters sinks to the ground. Juna and Nettie bend over him. 

Sterling. [^Turns round.^ 
Arthur Arlington, you here! Then we will settle up old scores. 

Plato and Kobinson close and xirest/e. Arthur and Sterling 
Itave a duel tvith knives. Plato finally frees himself from Robinson 
and fells him to the ground. Arthur stabs Sterlinc^, the latter falls, 
then raises on his elbow. 

Sterling. 
Curses on you for a butcher; you shall suffer yet for this. 

Note. — These duels should take place at one and the same time, and 
terminate. 

Tableau. 
Plato | Juna, | Arthur. 

Robinson j ' Mr. Walters ^"' \ Sterling. 

Nettie. 
Curtain. 

ACT V. 

SCENE I. — Count nj road. 

Enter Manks, l. 

Manks. 

Oh, glory! glory! I am loose! I am loose! A free man once again; 
\_ pauses pa7itin<)'] and may the stars of the firmament fall as snow upon the 
earth, and may the waters of the deep assuage as did the flood in Noah's day, 
and may the sun be darkened and the moon be hidden, if ever I am caught 
again. O Liberty! O Freedom ! where art thou in this day and at this time? 
Liberty, where are thy waste fields of peace and pleasure and freedom? where 
are thy nobility and charms? Art thou, like two companion doves, taken to 
the wing, leaving the e:irth that men may do as evil hearts and foul ambition 
prompt them ? tyrannizing over the weak but good, and doing deeds of violence 
to the unoffending. Here am I, a poor weak unoffending being, can I not walk 
the highways of life quietly, going where duty calls me, without being cap- 
tured by these hounds of the law, manackled, and dragged with untold cruelty 
to prison ? [Tramping of feet outside.l What's that? Heavens! they're after 
me again. [Jumps behind a tree, R.] 

Enter Mr. Villers and Constable Williams. 

Mr, Villers. 

So the rascals have been captured, eh ? 

Constable. 
Yes; but they are in rather a bad condition. Arthur and Plato used them 
kind of roughly. 

Mr. Villers. 
Are they dangerously injured? 

Constable. 
Well, no, not dangerously. Sterling was stabbed in the duel, his wounds 
are painful but not dangerous. Mark Star was shot— not fatally, though. 
Joe Robinson escaped with a black eve, the effect of a blow from Plato's 
fist. 



22 

Mr. Villees. 
And where is the other one? I understood these ruffians had another part- 
ner, what became of him? 

Constable. 
Oh! I guess Plato made short work of him Ly throwing Jiim (jver the cliff; 
but it wasn't much loss I) the community, for I know tliis fellow to be the 
greatest coward in the place, and — 

Manks. [RusJiing down centre.^ 
That's a lie, gentlemen, that's a lie I am not a coward, and I'll soon prove 
it, sir. [To Constable.] I question your authority to make such an assertion. 

Constable nudges Mr. Villers and points pistol at Manks. 
Constable. 
This is my authority, sir. 

Manks. [^Suddenly melting to ohedienee.'] 
Oh, I beg pardon, sir; I don't mean to offend you. Don't shoot, sir, don't 
shoot. 

Mr. Villers. 
Ha — ha — ha! how brave ! 

Constable. \_Loivers pistol.] 
Well, I don't mean to shoot you just n(jw ; but, I say, how did you escape 
drowning in the lake. 

Manks. 
Oh, 1 just crawled out on the shore. Well, good day, gentlemen, my time 
is limited. \_Retreats, R., vatcldng pistol closely.'] 

Constable. 
^Vait a moment, I have business with you. 

Manks. 
Indeed, I hope you'll excuse me just now, sir; I am in great haste. 

Constable. 
My business is very urgent. 

Manks. \_Slill retreating.] 
I cannot possibly remain, sir. I — 

Con.stable. [Points pistol.] 
Come back, sir, I insist. 

Manks. 
Oh, certainly, if it is necessary — don't point that pistol. 

Constable produces handcuffs. Manks, seeing them, makes a leap 
R. sups and falls npon stage. Constable rushes at Mm and slips 
handcuffs on him. 

Constable. 
Aha ! you thought to escape. 

Manks rises with difficulty, assisted by Constable. 
Manks. 
Oh, Oh ! I've broken every inch of bones in my body. 

Constable. 
Well, we will just take you to the station house and mend you. Comr, Mr. 
Villers; I was lucky to meet this chap. 

Manks. 
Oh, this is outrageous, gentlemen ! I am a harmless being, why do you thus 
treat me? — yes, why? O Freedom ! O Liberty! 

Exit all three, R. Mr. Villers laughing. 

SCENE II. — Neatly furnished mom in Mr. Walters' hoiise. 
Nettie and Juna seated on sofa, k. Mr. Walters by the fire. 

Nettie. 
Well, papa, we are none the worse for our terrible adventure. 



23 

Mr. Walters. 
No, Nettie, thanks to a kind heaven that gave Arthur and Plato strength 
and bold hearts to rescue us. 

E)i,fer Plato. 

Plato. 
Mr. Arlington and his uncle have called, sir. 

Mr. Walters. 
Show them in this room, Plato, and return yourself. This is a grand re- 
union, and I wish each actor in our laie adventure present. 

JUNA. 

Wliat a terrihlc adventure we have had ! I shudder when I think of your 
peril when that villain held a knife over you. 

Mr. Walters. 
Yes ; but let us not call to memory the scene, except to praise the bravery of 
that young hero, Arthur. 

Elder Arthur, Mr. Villers mid Plato, r. 

Arthur. 
And the noble fellow, Plato, who was first to start in hot pursuit, and leader 
to the rescue. 

Mr. Walters rises, -ihakes hands ivlth Arthur and Mr. Villers. 

Mr. Walters. 
Right, Arthur, quite right. 

Plato bows. 

Mr. Walters. \To Mr. Villers.] 
What think you of our family? 

Mr. Villers. 
It is (|uite a large and noble one, my dear sir. 

Nettie. [To Arthur.] 
Arthur, your visit to Europe was a short one. 

Arthur. 
Well, yes, rather; but I shall make another start, and if God wills, and vou 
fulfil your promise, we shall sail together. 

Mr. Walters. 
Well, Plato, your sinewy arms have won for you a rich reward, your noble 
heart a richer, and {;with meaning glances at Juna] your courage and your 
bravery have capped the monument of your ambition's goal — your debt of 
gratitude is [)aid. [Plato bovs.] And Arthur, I cannot give to you a richer 
prize than she — the nearest and the dearest to my heart — my daughter. [To 
Mr. Villers.] 8ee, friend, the germ of a matrimonial flower has appeared, 
and strong the indications are that you, in reverence to your calling, shall 
be sought to join four youthful hearts, for weal or woe, through life. 

Tableau. 

Juna, | Mr. Walters, ( Arthur, 

Plato, i ' Mr. Villers. ^' | Nettie. 

Curtain. 



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